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Holmes Beach auto theft leads to pursuit

The Manatee County Sheriff’s Officer received a “be on the lookout” call from the Holmes Beach Police Department July 29 following a report of a stolen vehicle.

MCSO deputies spotted the truck driving east on Cortez Road, near 75th Street West, Bradenton. Deputies attempted to initiate a traffic stop near the 5900 block, but the driver, Michael Reed, 28, did not stop.

According to a MCSO press release, a brief pursuit through the nearby area took place with speeds not exceeding 70 mph.

Within a few minutes of the pursuit, the vehicle stopped at 4000 61st St. W.

Deputies observed two passengers riding with Reed. The report states Reed fled the scene while the two passengers were apprehended immediately.

Reed was located in a nearby home and arrested on multiple charges. The truck was returned to its owner.

According to a HBPD investigation into the theft, two of the men befriended the victims while they were all at the beach. At some point, Reed allegedly took the victim’s gun and car keys, and fled with the vehicle.

A third man was picked up after the theft had occurred. According to the MCSO report, only Reed has been charged.